What made you take the step of leaving Spain to come and play in Poland, and how did Arka Gdynia’s interest first reach you?

• Everything happened a bit unexpectedly. My plan was actually to stay in Spain, specifically at Burgos, and both the sporting director and the coach wanted me to remain there. Unfortunately, we couldn’t reach an agreement on a contract extension, so I started looking at other possibilities, including moves abroad. I spoke with my agent, who arranged a video call with the Arka Gdynia coach. He convinced me that I would be an important part of the team and that I fit perfectly into their style of play. When a coach shows you that he really wants you, the decision becomes easier — and that’s why I chose to accept Arka’s offer. 

Why did you choose to sign for Arka Gdynia? Was there anyone in particular who influenced that decision — your agent, your family, or maybe a coach?

• As I mentioned, the conversation with coach Szwarga had a big influence on my decision, but of course I also discussed the whole move with my partner. Family is very important to me, and we both felt this was a good step — a chance to try something new, especially since it’s my first football experience outside of Spain. I also spoke with Marc Navarro, who told me a lot about the club, its strengths, and the atmosphere at the stadium. After that, I had no doubts left. 

How has the adaptation process been for you — both to Polish football and to life in Gdynia? What has been the most challenging part, on and off the pitch?

• The beginning was really difficult for me — a new place, new people, and I don’t speak English very well, so communication was challenging. It also took some time to find an apartment and settle in. But the club and everyone around it have treated me extremely well from the very first day, helping me with everything. As for the league, I’ve grown to really like it. There are many teams of very high quality, the matches are played at a strong level, and the whole league is very professionally presented. I’m really happy here. 

How do you rate the level of the Ekstraklasa since your arrival? What differences do you notice compared to the football you played in Spain?

• I see the Ekstraklasa as a league of high quality, especially the teams that compete in European competitions — they are really strong. If I had to compare it with the Spanish Segunda División, the level is very similar. In Poland the game is perhaps a bit more physical, and I would also say that central midfielders here are of a very high standard. 

Throughout your career you’ve shared a dressing room with many players. Who would you say was the most talented teammate you’ve ever played with?

• I’ve shared a dressing room with many outstanding players, but if I had to name just one, it would be Pedri from FC Barcelona. He was very young at the time, just breaking into the first team at Las Palmas. We were together on preseason, and from the very first touch of the ball, it was clear he was an exceptional player — an unbelievable talent. Players like him are born once in a decade 

Do you feel you have a different role at Arka compared to your previous clubs? In what way has your style of play changed?

• I feel a lot of trust from both the club and the coach. I know that in no team do you play just because of who you are — I have to prove myself in every training session, in every match, every single day that I deserve a place in the starting eleven. And I hope I can help the team at every moment this season. 

What is your daily relationship like with coach Dawid Szwarga? What kind of communication do you have, and what does he specifically expect from you on the pitch?

• We have a very good relationship. One-on-one we don’t speak very often, mainly because of the language barrier. But I communicate a lot with the assistant, and the coach makes sure I understand what he expects from me, both defensively and offensively. So far, I feel I’m doing my job well, and I want to help the team by scoring as many goals as possible. 

In the match against Lech Poznań you scored a hat-trick in just 14 minutes. How did you experience those moments, and what went through your mind when the third goal went in?

• It was an amazing day, truly unforgettable. You don’t score three goals in a single match every day — especially in a home game against the national champions, with your family and friends in the stands. On top of that, the important thing was winning the match — we needed the three points, and we got them. I will never forget this game; it was a beautiful experience 

You became the third player in Arka’s history to score a hat-trick in the Ekstraklasa. What does this achievement mean to you personally?

• It’s a beautiful moment, and the kind of milestone that’s important for me, but also for the fans. They’ll probably remember that this Spanish player scored a hat-trick against the Polish champions, hahaha. 

What would you say are your biggest challenges for the rest of the season — maintaining your scoring form, helping the team climb the table, or something else?

• First and foremost, as a team we need to collect points, win matches, and aim for a higher position in the table. From my side, I want to help by scoring goals — as many as possible — and I hope I can do that. We have an interesting squad, a good coach, and amazing fans, and we want to bring them joy. 

You now face a tough match against Raków Częstochowa. How do you see this opponent, and what do you think will be key for Arka to get a good result?

• We know it won’t be an easy match. Raków is a very good team, competing in European competitions. But with the right plan for the game, I’m confident it will go well. We need to play very solidly in defense, and in attack I’m sure something will go in. We’ve been working all week for this match, so we’ll be very well prepared. We’re playing at our home stadium, and the fans will definitely be our 12th man 

There is often a lot of media attention surrounding Raków’s coach, Marek Papszun. Do you think that external noise could influence their performance and have any impact on this match?

• No, I don’t think such situations or rumors will have any impact on this match. All the players are professionals and are focused on the game, here and now. These kinds of speculations don’t destabilize the team. We need to focus on ourselves, play a good match, and make sure the three points stay in Gdynia.

Edu Espiau, the Spanish forward currently starring for Arka Gdynia, has followed a unique path through Spanish football before making his mark in Poland. Born on December 19, 1994, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Espiau began his football journey in local youth academies, gradually rising through the ranks to the professional level.

Early Years at Las Palmas

Espiau first made waves in Las Palmas C, where he impressed with 33 goals in a single season, showcasing his natural scoring ability. His talent earned him promotion to Las Palmas B, where over the 2018–2019 season he featured in 43 matches, scoring 12 goals. His consistent performances caught the attention of the first team, and in the 2020–2021 Segunda División season, he made 29 appearances and scored 2 goals.

During this period, he also spent a season on loan with Villarreal B, contributing 9 goals in 27 matches, further developing his game and gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment. These formative years helped Espiau refine his movement, finishing, and tactical understanding — all essential skills for a modern forward.

Growth in Segunda División: Ponferradina and Burgos CF

After Las Palmas, Espiau joined SD Ponferradina, becoming a regular starter and contributing consistently over two seasons. In 2023, he moved to Burgos CF, adding further experience in Spain’s Segunda División, where he totaled over 80 appearances, solidifying his reputation as a hardworking and reliable striker.

These years in Spain’s second tier provided him with the foundation he needed: technical skills, tactical awareness, and the resilience required to succeed at a professional level.

A New Chapter in Poland: Arka Gdynia

In 2025, Espiau took a major step in his career by moving abroad for the first time, joining Arka Gdynia in the Ekstraklasa. Quickly establishing himself as a key player, he impressed fans with his sharp finishing, intelligent movement, and decisive goals — including a memorable hat-trick against Lech Poznań.

Off the pitch, Espiau is known for his professionalism, work ethic, and willingness to adapt to a new country and league. His journey from the youth ranks in Spain to becoming a star in Poland demonstrates not only talent, but determination and adaptability.

Looking Ahead

With a solid foundation built in Spain and a growing reputation in Poland, EduEspiau is a forward to watch. His story reflects the path of a modern footballer: learning, adapting, and seizing opportunities — whether at home or abroad. Arka Gdynia fans can expect him to continue making a mark, scoring goals, and helping the team aim higher in the league.Edu Espiau, the Spanish forward currently starring for Arka Gdynia, has followed a unique path through Spanish football before making his mark in Poland. Born on December 19, 1994, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Espiau began his football journey in local youth academies, gradually rising through the ranks to the professional level.

Early Years at Las Palmas

Espiau first made waves in Las Palmas C, where he impressed with 33 goals in a single season, showcasing his natural scoring ability. His talent earned him promotion to Las Palmas B, where over the 2018–2019 season he featured in 43 matches, scoring 12 goals. His consistent performances caught the attention of the first team, and in the 2020–2021 Segunda División season, he made 29 appearances and scored 2 goals.

During this period, he also spent a season on loan with Villarreal B, contributing 9 goals in 27 matches, further developing his game and gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment. These formative years helped Espiau refine his movement, finishing, and tactical understanding — all essential skills for a modern forward.

Growth in Segunda División: Ponferradina and Burgos CF

After Las Palmas, Espiau joined SD Ponferradina, becoming a regular starter and contributing consistently over two seasons. In 2023, he moved to Burgos CF, adding further experience in Spain’s Segunda División, where he totaled over 80 appearances, solidifying his reputation as a hardworking and reliable striker.

These years in Spain’s second tier provided him with the foundation he needed: technical skills, tactical awareness, and the resilience required to succeed at a professional level.

A New Chapter in Poland: Arka Gdynia

In 2025, Espiau took a major step in his career by moving abroad for the first time, joining Arka Gdynia in the Ekstraklasa. Quickly establishing himself as a key player, he impressed fans with his sharp finishing, intelligent movement, and decisive goals — including a memorable hat-trick against Lech Poznań.

Off the pitch, Espiau is known for his professionalism, work ethic, and willingness to adapt to a new country and league. His journey from the youth ranks in Spain to becoming a star in Poland demonstrates not only talent, but determination and adaptability.

Looking Ahead

With a solid foundation built in Spain and a growing reputation in Poland, Edu Espiau is a forward to watch. His story reflects the path of a modern footballer: learning, adapting, and seizing opportunities — whether at home or abroad. Arka Gdynia fans can expect him to continue making a mark, scoring goals, and helping the team aim higher in the league.